Adjuvant corneal crosslinking to prevent hyperopic LASIK regression.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Refractive Surgery
• Corneal Biomechanics

Background:

• Hyperopic refractive errors can lead to regression after LASIK.
• Corneal ectasia is a potential risk following refractive surgery.
• Corneal crosslinking (CXL) enhances corneal biomechanical strength.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the long-term outcomes, safety, stability, and efficacy of simultaneous hyperopic LASIK and CXL.
• To assess the potential of this combined procedure in managing hyperopic regression and ectasia risk.

Main Methods:

• A pilot series of five eyes underwent simultaneous LASIK and CXL for hyperopia.
• Riboflavin was applied under the LASIK flap, followed by UV irradiation.
• Outcomes were assessed at multiple time points up to 4 years and compared to a LASIK-only cohort.

Main Results:

• All eyes in the LASIK-CXL group maintained refractive stability over 4 years.
• No complications related to CXL were observed.
• Topographic and clinical outcomes were comparable to standard LASIK.

Conclusions:

• Simultaneous LASIK and CXL for hyperopia is a safe procedure.
• This technique shows potential for reducing hyperopic regression, likely due to biomechanical stabilization.
• The combined approach may offer a solution for managing ectasia risk in hyperopic patients.